The African Journal of Animal & Biomedical Sciences
AJABS is an internationally refereed journal published jointly by the International Network on Animal and Biomedical Science and Technology for Africa (INABSTA), an initiative of the NEPAD Council Education Commission (NCEC), Makerere University (College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resource and Bio-Security - CoVAB) and Uganda Veterinary Association.
Evaluation of fish gills as potential target organ for accumulation of heavy metals
Fish gills were evaluated in this study as potential target organ for accumulation of heavy metals. Pollution has become a hydra-headed problem which is aggravated daily especially in the developing countries where effective waste management and pollution control are hardly established. In the aquatic environment, several objects, both living and non-living have been studied for use as indicators of water pollution. Two species of fish, tilapia (Tilapia zilli) and cat fish (Chrysichthys nigrodigatatus ), were studied for heavy metal levels in the gills and the fillet. Samples were taken from Ikorodu lagoon in Lagos state, Nigeria. The samples were oven-dried, digested and analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The values of heavy metals in the gills of cat fish ranged from 1.08-2.2 mg/kg for Zn; 1.19-2.66 mg/kg, Cu; 5.105-10.56 mg/kg, Pb; ND-10.715 mg/kg, Fe; and 0.66-1.67 mg/kg, Cd. The levels obtained in the fillet of cat fish were 0.787-1.045 mg/kg for Zn; 0.312-1.045 mg/kg, Cu; ND-3.22 mg/kg, Pb; ND-20.102 mg/kg, Fe; and ND-0.777 mg/kg, Cd. For heavy metal levels in tilapia samples, the levels in gills ranged from 1.135-4.07 mg/kg for Zn; 1.11-2.66 mg/kg, Cu; ND-2.102 mg/kg, Pb; 69.105-122.28 mg/kg, Fe; and ND-1.52 mg/kg, Cd. The levels in the fillet of tilapia fish were 0.735-1.585 mg/kg, Zn; 0.752-2.697 mg/kg, Cu; ND-0.392 mg/kg, Pb; 19.572-125.217 mg/kg, Fe; and ND-0.947 mg/kg, Cd. The gill/fillet heavy metal accumulation ratios were all greater than 1, except for Fe in catfish and Cd in tilapia. It could be inferred from this study and the reviewed literatures that fish gill was a potential target organ for accumulation of heavy metals. And this could be due to constant contact of gill blood stream with heavy metal polluted water in the process of inflow and outflow of water through the gills.
Surveys of animal trypanosomosis in Anambra and Delta States of Nigeria
The prevalence of trypanosomes was investigated in animals in the rain forest zone of Anambra and Delta States of Nigeria. Buffy coat method and Giemsa stained thin film were used to diagnose and identify trypanosome species in blood of 357 white Fulani zebu cattle, 70 dogs and 35 pigs collected at random from the study areas. Packed cell volume (PCV) was determined. Structured questionnaire was used to determine the knowledge, attitude and perception (KAP) of herdsmen about trypanosomosis. Results overall showed that 11 (3.08%) cattle, 0 (0 %) dogs and one (2.86%) pig were respectively found infected with trypanosomes and that Trypanosoma vivax was most prevalent followed by T. congolense and T. brucei. The mean PCV (25 %) for the trypanosome-positive and 28 % for trypanosome-negative cattle were within the normal range (≥ 24 %). The herdsmen interviewed were aware of trypanosomosis, tsetse and mentioned weight loss, weakness, and geophagia as symptoms among others. They maintained that trypanosomosis did not pose a serious threat to livestock development in the region and mentioned ticks as important parasitic infection treatable with anti-parasitic drugs. Introduction of cattle from the northern region into the two states was identified as a major factor in the maintenance and spread of animal trypanosomosis. From our findings and given good nutrition as demonstrated by the abundance of fodder all year round, animals were more likely to withstand the deleterious effects of trypanosomosis. The study suggests strengthening intensive commercial cattle production in conjunction with good management practices to help boost cattle development in the region.
Management of veterinary drugs and chemicals in retail drug shops in Soroti Municipality, Eastern Uganda
Proper management of veterinary drugs, chemicals and biologicals is desirable to ensure quality, safety and efficacy in animal patients. However, the legal regime has entrusted pharmacists with this role, leaving the veterinarians with appropriate knowledge, technical expertise and mandate in supervision of veterinary drug out of the management. Furthermore, the policy of liberalization and privatization of veterinary service delivery has thrown the drug market wide open to businesses leading to possibility of wide spread drug abuse. This has led to non-professional personnel, driven primarily by profit, to fill the void in veterinary drug distribution business. Because of the health related dangers posed to the both animals and ultimately, the human end consumers, a study was designed to evaluate the prevailing management status of veterinary drugs in retail shops with regard to personnel capacity, physical facilities and dispensing practices. The cross sectional study was carried out in Soroti Municipality, headquarter to the district with one of the highest livestock populations in eastern Uganda, using questionnaires and direct observations. Results showed that although all the veterinary drug shops surveyed were located in permanent houses, the general hygiene status at the shops was low at only 40% (n=10). Animal husbandry officers, who are diploma holders were found to dominate the drug distribution business while veterinary surgeons employed non-professional staff to man the shops on their behalf. Overall 60% (n=10) of the shop attendants reported some knowledge about the National Drug Policy and Authority Statute, while 80% were able to distinguish between the different of classes of veterinary drugs. All shops were found to be illegally dealing in class B and class C drugs. Most drug shop attendants (60%) dispensed drugs based on case history only without any other diagnosis, while 20% integrated case history and customer desire to choose the drug to dispense. A large proportion of attendants 86% (n=32) stopped at advising their clients on which drug(s) to purchase. All the attendants dispensed drugs based on brand names but did not label them. Only 20% of the shops had water while records were generally kept. In was concluded that management status of veterinary drugs in retail drug shops are still poor. Therefore there was need for increased vigilance by the National Drug Authority, District and Municipal inspectors to minimize the risks associated poor management of veterinary drugs at retail outlets.
Prevalence of Entamoeba histolytica among hospital patients in Soroti, Eastern Uganda
Amoebiasis is an infection caused by water borne protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica. In Uganda where sanitation infrastructure and health education are not adequate, amoebiasis is still be an important health problem. However, there was little or no data on prevalence of this parasite in Uganda. This information was needed for decision making in order to allocate limited public health resources for treatment and prevention of amoebiasis. Currently there is a feasibility of development of amebiasis vaccine, therefore such studies could strengthen the urgency of this innovation. Routine microscopy procedures were used for detection of Entamoeba histolytica among patients presenting with clinical signs associated with amoebiasis in selected health facilities in Soroti, Eastern Uganda. Direct examination of wet stool was done. Of the 301 stool samples examined, 60 (19.93%) were found to be positive for Entamoeba histolytica/dispar. Infection with Entamoeba histolytica/dispar was significantly higher (P<0.05) among males (22.14%) compared to 17.39% among females. The prevalence was significantly higher (P<0.05) in 6-12 years age group (22.4%) than in 13-19 years age group (17.65%). In conclusion amoebiasis was an important health problem in Soroti and probably Uganda as a whole. However since Entamoeba histolytica and E.dispar are morphologically similar, it is recommended that molecular studies characterize them so that true prevalence of pathogenic Entamoeba histolytica can be determined.
Factors leading to low grading of goatskins in selected abattoirs, stores and a tannery in Uganda
Poor quality of hides and skins is one of the reasons why Africa partakes only less than 1% of the total value of the hides and skin trade. A study was carried out to determine the different types of skin conditions and other defects leading to low quality of goatskins from Uganda. One thousand six hundred ninety seven goats (1697) from two abattoirs; two hundred seventy seven skin rejects from skin stores and fifty wet-blue skin rejects were used in the study. Two hundred thirty two goats (13.6%) of the goats had skin lesions. The major lesions were: demodectic mange (29.3%), arthropod induced dermatitis (8.6%), abscesses (5.2%), tumours (5.2%), traumatic injuries (4.3%), pustular dermatitis (16.8%), pyogranulomas (3.9%), epidermal cysts (3.9%), parasitic and foreign body granulomas (1.3% each) and ringworms (1.3%). Defects found to cause rejection of skins in the 3 Hides and Skins Stores were: flay cuts (41.5%), putrefaction (39.7%), vermin damage (13.7%), thinness (10.1%), small sized skins (6.5%), dermatophilosis (1.0%) and abscesses (1.4%). The main causes of rejection in wet-blue skins were: putrefaction (62.0%), vermin damage (38%) and flay cuts (18%). Post slaughter defects were responsible for 86.2% of the total rejection of goatskins, while pre-slaughter defects were found in only 13.6% of the goats examined at the abattoir. The overall rejection of skins due to skin diseases was less than 10%. It was recommendeds and that farmers and hides and skin handlers should adopt proper suggested best practices for production of good quality skins; and provisions of incentives as the most important step to improve quality of goatskins in the country.
Phytochemical profiling and larvicidal activity of Synadenium grantii (Hook. F.) extracts on Anopheles gambie mosquito larvae
A study was done to establish the phytochemical profile of Synadenium grantii (Hook. F.) extracts and determine their larvicidal activity on mosquito larvae. Three parts of Synadenium grantii (leaves, stem and roots) were extacted using ethanol and diethyl ether by soaking for 7 days. The phytochemical profiles of the different concentrations of the extracts were determined after filtration. Synadenium grantii was found to contain tannins, reducing sugars, alkaloid salts, anthracenosides, coumarins, flavonosides, steroid glycosides and anthocyanosides. However, the leaf extracts lacked steroid glycosides, while the stem and the root lacked both steroid glycosides and flavonosides. A larvicidal assay of each extract in varying concentrations was evaluated against 10 mosquito larvae in vitro. The larvae were then observed after an exposure period of 24 hours at an interval of 2 hours. The results of the larvicidal assay demonstrated that the ethanol extract from the stem had the strongest larvicidal activity at all the concentrations used of 20%, 8%, 2%, 1% and 0.5% causing a mean death of 86.7%, 90.8%, 85.8%, 85.8% and 84.1%, respectively. The diethyl ether extract from the stem showed the least larvicidal activity with a mean death of 35.8%, 29.2%, 30.0%, 21.7% and 33.3%, respectively. Generally, all the extracts from the different parts of the plant had larvicidal activity to a varying degree. It was further observed, that even for the larvae which did not die, had evidence of larval development inhibition. This study showed that extracts from this plant had phytochemicals which had larvicidal activity on mosquito larvae. The stem ethanol extracts had the most pronounced larvicidal effect on mosquito larvae with nearly 100% mortality at concentrations as low as 0.5% in 6 hrs. This study has showed that this plant has biopesticide effects and its application should be integrated with other mosquito control programmes. However, more work should be carried out on larvicidal efficacy of the active ingredients in the extracts of Synadenium grantii.
Yeasts isolated from ‘Kwerionik’ and some of their biological attributes of importance in milk fermentation
‘Kwerionik’ is a traditional cultured milk produced in Eastern Uganda at the slopes of Mount Elgon. Field and laboratory fermented ‘Kwerionik’ samples were microbiologically analysed to establish the levels of yeast strains at the various stages of fermentation. Also yeast isolates were identified to species level and their important characteristics for milk fermentation were identified. Yeast enumeration and isolation were carried out on Potato Dextrose agar under aerobic conditions fort 30°C for two days. Presence of yeasts was confirmed by colonial morphology and by microscopy. The isolates were screened into groups by polymerase chain reaction-intergenic transcribed spacer (PCR-ITS) fragment length polymorphism (18S28S), and the various groups were identified to genus and species level by the carbohydrate assimilation tests using the ID32C kit (bioMérieux, Marcy l’Etoile, France). Other biochemical tests including ability to assimilate lactic acid and citric acid and to ferment carbohydrates ( glucose, galactose, lactose, sucrose, maltose and raffinose) and enzymatic activity were also carried out. Isolates belonging to the same ITS group were distinguished by API ID32 kit and species identity was confirmed using Candida kruseispecies specific PCR . A total of 261 yeast isolates were analysed and the predominant species included Candida krusei (52.1%), Candida kefyr (26.8%). Others were Pichia ohmeria (5.8%), Candida intermedia or Candida lusitaniae (5%), Candida pelliculosa (2.7%), Candida lambica (3.1%), Candida guilliermondii (1.5%) and Candida holmii (0.9%). Some of the species exhibited properties important to fermentation of milk, such as, β-galactosidase, lipase and proteolytic activity. The contribution of the yeasts to ‛Kwerionik’ fermentation needed to be established.
Prevalence of infectious bursal disease in local chickens around Kampala Uganda
A study was carried out to determine the prevalence of infectious bursal disease (Gumboro disease) around Kampala in the five divisions of Kawempe, Makindye, Nakawa, Rubaga and Central. A total of 400 serum samples were examined with 80 serum samples got from each division. Indirect ELISA was used. The samples were found to be reactive to antibodies against the Gumboro disease with total prevalence of 26% . A prevalence of 22.5%, 31.25%, 22.5%, 45% and 10% were got for Kawempe, Makindye, Nakawa, Rubaga and Central divisions respectively. Rubaga had the highest antibody prevalence showing that these local chickens had the highest exposure to the Gomboro viruses. The least prevalence was in Central division and may be probably due to low exposure of the local chickens to Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD) virus. The present study has shown that local free ranging chickens in the five divisions of Kampala were already exposed to IBD virus. It was recommended that further observations and studies be carried out to isolate and characterize the type of IBD virus strains circulating in these birds.
Potential risks, consumer perceptions and preferences of shallow ground water in urban and rural areas of Uganda
Shallow ground water is an important resource in both rural and urban areas of Uganda. However, this water could be a vehicle for diarrheal infections in the country. Investigations were carried out to assess the sanitary practices and potential risks for pollution of these water resources. A questionnaire survey in addition to direct observations and focus group discussions was carried out in Kampala City (urban) and Amuria and Kiboga districts (rural areas). Several potential risks for contamination of these resources were identified. Pit latrine coverage was high in Kiboga (97.8%) and Nakawa (95.1%), however, in the latter they were often located uphill, and close (<15m) to the water sources. In contrast, Amuria had low pit latrine coverage (46.8%) with residents indiscriminately disposing fecal excreta into the environment. In Kiboga 74.5% of respondents reported livestock access to domestic water sources, this was followed by Amuria (43.2%) and least was Nakawa (26.2%). Other sanitary risks included rain pollution, faulty concrete slabs on wells and protected springs and washing and garbage disposal near water sources. The presence of earth worms sometimes in water featured prominently. Data showed that 78.1%, 68% and 2.7%, residents of Kiboga, Nakawa and Amuria, respectively, boiled their water prior to drinking. The communities in both urban and rural areas preferred shallow ground water as opposed to tap water and considered the former as being fresh, clean and safe from pollution since it is from underground. Based on these data there was a need to sensitize and educate the communities about good sanitary practices and dangers of consuming contaminated water and studies were therefore necessary to assess the safety and quality of this water.
Effects of anthraquinone extract from Rheum palmatum on growth indices of Rutilus frisii kutum
Rapid growth is of paramount importance for young fish. Therefore, studies focused on the rate of growth in freshwater and marine fish species were done with a major the objective to study the effects of antraquinone extract from rheum palmatum on the growth of Rutilus frisii kutum. Kutum fingerlings were divided randomly into four groups: a control group fed on basal diet, three treatment groups fed on a basal diet supplemented with 0.5%, 1% and 2% anthraquinone extract respectively. The growth was monitored after 8 weeks. FCR and SGR were higher in supplemented groups with antraquinone extract. The group supplemented with 0.5%-2.0% antraquinone extract from Rheum palmatum significantly had increased in growth. It was shown that that 0.5%-2% anthraquinone extract from Rheum palmatum that was added to basal diet promoted growth of fish.
Evaluation of herd structure of white Fulani cattle holdings in Zaria-Nigeria
A survey of 20 Fulani households in Zaria and environs revealed that the maximum and minimum herd size of Fulani cattle holdings in Zaria was 69 and 16, respectively, with the mean herd size of 42. The cattle stock composition showed a gender imbalance, with a preponderance of the female stock than males. On the average, female animals constitute 60-75% in each herd type. The young animals contributed about 50% of the herd size, with more females (35%) than males (15%). The proportion of breeding cows in the herd was 44% while the proportion of the breeding bulls was 6%, this showed that the proportion of the males in the herd reduced as they reached breeding age. The mean values for the breeding bulls, breeding cows, young males and females per herd were 2.6, 18.5, 5.7 and 14.7 respectively. There was however, high variability amongst the herd structure attributes with respect to herd sizes (CV= 36.8%), number of breeding bulls (CV= 40.2%), breeding cows (CV= 49.1%), young males (CV=42.3%) and young females per herd (CV= 44.5%). The bulls in the Fulani herds reached considerable high age (average of 4.05 years) before breeding. The mean age of the breeding bulls in the Fulani herds was 5.98 years. Although older bulls of up to 12 years were found in some of the herds. A majority of the bulls were within 5 years age bracket. The high percentage of breeding and rearing females in the herd implies that the Fulani herdsmen were conscious of keeping only those animals which were productive for the sake of increasing their herd.
Angiostrongylus cantonensis and other parasites infections of rodents of Budongo Forest Reserve, Uganda
Angiostrongylus cantonensis has been documented for the first time in tissues of rodents from Budongo Forest Reserve in Uganda. Budongo Forest Reserve (BFR) is situated in Western Uganda in the Disricts of Masindi and Hoima. Thirty-three rodents were humanely captured, euthanized and tissues processed for histological examination. Six % (2/33) of rodents belonging to Lophomurus, sikapusi were infected with Angiostrongylus cantonensis. The parasite was found in the rodent lung tissues with lesions characterized by granulomatous pneumonia, periarteritis, and the presence of eosinophils, macrophages, plasma cells and degenerating adults, eggs and larvae.
Processing steps and lactic acid bacteria involved in traditional cultured milk (Kwerionik) production in Uganda
The production process of traditionally fermented milk (Kwerionik) from Eastern Uganda and the lactic acid bacteria (LAB) involved were investigated. Viable plate count method was employed for enumeration and isolation of LAB, coliforms and mesophilic aerobes from both the field and laboratory fermentation samples. Representative LAB isolates from the various stages of fermentation were grouped by PCR fingerprinting of the 16S-23S rRNA internal transcribed spacer region; and identified by carbohydrate fermentation tests using API 50 CH kit; and by sequencing of the 16S RNA gene. Fermentation was spontaneous; carried out in gourds and involves periodic removal of whey and addition of fresh milk. The field and the laboratory Kwerionik samples had comparable parameters. The pH ranged between 3.5 and 4.5; LAB levels were 10 9 cfu g-1 after one day but later decreased to 10 5 –10 6 cfu g-1. Mesophilic aerobes ranged from 10 6 to 10 10 cfu g-1 while coliform levels up to 10 7 cfu g-1 were detected, but not later than 11 days. The pH and microbial counts at the different fermentation durations were significantly different (p<0.005) except for the coliforms. Lactobacillus plantarum, Enterococcus faecalis, Lactobacillus paracasei subsp paracasei, Lactobacillus casei subsp casei, Lactococcus lactis subsp lactis, Enterococcus faecium and Leuconostoc mesenteroides subsp mesenteroides were involved.
Antibiotic misuse by farmers in Ngoma subcounty Nakaseke district, Uganda
A cross-sectional study was done in Ngoma sub-county, Nakaseke district to assess the extent of antibiotic abuse by farmers and the associated precipitating factors. Simple random sampling without replacement was used to select farms and drug shops. Single visits were made and respondents interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires. Drug shops were the main source of antibiotics to farmers (80.6%). Tetracycline was the most used drug (65.5%) followed by Penicillin (21.9%). Most farmers (90.2%) were ignorant of the drug withdrawal period phenomena and 55.3% were not informed about the same by the veterinary practitioners during therapeutic intervention. Veterinary practitioners did not follow up treatment cases (59.7% of farmers). This could have been partially responsible for consumption of milk within the withdrawal period and incomplete treatment regimen. The drug shops were mainly operated by unqualified persons. Antibiotics were not administered at right doses. Economic factors influenced antibiotic misuse. To prevent unauthorized people from dispensing drugs, let alone in absence of proper prescriptions, farmers needed to be sensitized on the importance of rational drug use. Relevant laws should be enforced. There was a need to carry out more studies like this in order to ascertain the magnitude of drug abuse in the livestock sector nation-wide.
Serological Survey Of Brucella Antibodies In Cattle Herds In Yobe State, Nigeria.
Serological survey of Brucella antibodies in cattle herds was carried out in all the five agricultural zones of Yobe state, Nigeria. Four hundred (400) cattle serum samples from different herds located in all the agricultural zones of the state were screened by Microtitre Serum Agglutination Test (MSAT). One hundred structured questionnaires were also administered to pastoralist herdsmen in the state. Out of the four hundred (400) sera screened, 136(34.0%) was seropositive. Of the 136 seropositive cattle, 32(8.0%) were male while 104(26.0%) were female cattle. There was no significant statistical difference (P>0.05) in the sero-prevalent rates between the male and female cattle screened. The highest specific sero-prevalence of 14.0% was obtained in the age band of 5–6.5years, while the least (1.5%) was obtained in the age band 1–2.5 years. Geidam zone with 12.0% specific sero-prevalence was the highest among all the zones of the state while Damaturu zone recorded the least (3.5%). The white Fulani breed recorded the highest specific sero-prevalence of 15.0% followed by Wadara, 9.5%, Red Bororo 5.5% and Adamawa Gudali 3.5 %. There was no significant statistical difference in the age, breeds and agricultural zones of the state (P>0.05). Also there was no significant statistical association between the sex of the cattle and Brucella infection. The study concluded that brucellosis was still endemic in the herds of cattle in Yobe State. The sero-prevalence was higher among females than males and in the adults than in the young cattle studied. Key words: Brucellosis, cattle, sero-prevalence, Nigeria, Yobe.
Reliability Of Using Best’s Carmine And Haematoxylin-Eosin Methods For The Detection Of Glycogen In Paraffin Wax Tissue Sections.
The study sought to determine the reliability of Heamatoxylin and Eosin (H&E) and Best’s carmine methods for the detection of glycogen in paraffin wax embedded tissues sections. This was a retrospective laboratory based study. Tissue blocks of adenocarcinoma of the ovary were retrospectively retrieved, sectioned and stained using H&E and Best’s carmine as test methods and periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) as “gold standard”. Out of 200 tissues sampled, 60.5% were PAS positive.. Based on the performance of “gold standard” (PAS), Best’s carmine and H&E had sensitivities of (88.5%; 56%) and specificities of (69.9%; 44%) respectively. Best’s carmine had positive and negative predictive values of (69.4%; 88.8%) respectively, while H&E had positive and negative predictive values of (45.5%; 54.6%) respectively. Best’s carmine had diagnostic accuracy of 78.6% and H&E 49.5%. Best’s carmine had Cohen’s kappa of 0.6 while H&E had 0.001. PAS had turn- around time (TAT) of 858 minutes, costing USD 1.17 per test, while Best’s carmine TAT of 107 minutes costing USD 1.65 per test. H&E had TAT of 65 minutes costing USD 1.21 USD per test. Exchange rate of 1 USD = Ug. Shs 2509..Best’s carmine had fairly high reliability, high TAT and fairly costly. H&E had low reliability, low TAT and fairly cheaper. PAS had highest reliability and highest TAT and very cheap. Although Best’s carmine had high TAT and fairly expensive, it would be the most preferred method in the absence of PAS.
Qualitative Risk Assessment For Introduction Of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 Virus To Uganda.
A qualitative risk assessment study was done from January to April 2013. The risk question addressed was “What is the risk of introduction of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus to Uganda through wild migratory birds and cross border trade in live poultry and poultry products. The OIE framework for risk assessment was used. Emphasis was, however, laid on exposure assessment. The study involved content analysis of unclassified government reports, key informant interviews and expert opinion consultations. We estimated the risk of introduction of HPAI H5N1 virus through cross border movement of live poultry or poultry products from South Sudan to Uganda as very low with a low level of uncertainty. Furthermore, we also estimated the risk of introduction of HPAI H5N1 to Uganda through migratory wild birds as medium with a high level of uncertainty. The major risk increasing factors for the spread of HPAI H5N1 virus from migratory wild birds to resident poultry and humans included mixing of migratory wild birds with domestic poultry; abundance and spatial distribution of breeding sites; and in some communities, migratory wild birds are hunted and consumed. To prevent introduction of HPAI virus to Uganda, we recommend enhanced veterinary capacity in the whole country; heightened risk-based surveillance programs, especially in the high risk districts; and strengthened biosecurity measures in poultry farms in the high risk districts.
Prevalence Of Bacterial Infections And Their Effects On sSemen Of Infertile Men, Seen Retrospectively At Mulago Hospital 2012-2005.
A retrospective analytical study to determine the prevalence of bacterial infections, their effects on the semen quality, and the antibiogram of the bacterial isolates, in semen of infertile men referred to Mulago Hospital Infertility clinic, Makerere University, Kampala-Uganda was done from March 2012 to Aug 2005. Clinical records of semen of infertile men attending the infertility clinic at Mulago Hospital were retrieved and analyzed. Only results of samples analyzed according to World Health Organization guidelines of (1999) were included in the study. The variables of interest were spermatozoa; concentration, motility, morphology and vitality,bacterial isolates and their antibiotic sensitivities; and effect of bacterial isolates on semen quality and quantity. Sixty-six percent (n=57) of the semen specimen cultured had bacterial growth. The most prevalent bacteria isolates were Coagulase Negative Staphylococcus (40.35%), Staphylococcus aureus (31.57%), and Enterococcus feacalis (19.29%. Others were Streptococcus agalaceae (1.75%), Pseudomonas earuginosa (1.75%), Esch.coli (1.75%), Ureaplasma urealyticum (1.75%) and Acitenobacter baumani (1.75%).The semen abnomalities were Azoospermia (12.79%), Normozoospermia (11.62%), Asthenoteratozoospermia (24.4%) and Oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (51.16%). Staph aureus was exhibiting 33.5% asthenoteratozoospermia, 33% oligoasthenoteratozospemia and 22 % Normozoospermia, whereas CNStaphylococcus and Enterococcus feacalis exhibited 82% and 73% oligoasthenoteratozoospermia respectively. The rest of bacterial infection exhibited astheno-teratozoospermia. The bacteria were mostly sensitive gentamycin (90%) and augumentin (75%), as they were resistant to Amoxyllin (100%) and cotrimaxazole at (100%).In conclusion it was found that bacterial infection in semen was quite common in Uganda, leading to deterioration of semen quality resulting in likely male infertility. Therefore bacteria culture and sensitivity should routinely be done in semen analysis.
Occurrence And Fish Farmer Perceptions Of Symptoms Of Diseases In Ibadan And Ikorodu In Nigeria.
Most fish farmers in developing countries like Nigeria are ignorant of the devastating impact of diseases to aquaculture. This study was carried out to assess fish farmers’ knowledge and perception of symptoms of disease among Clarias gariepinus fish farming communities in Ibadan and Ikorodu. Questionnaires were administered to 50 consenting fish farmers in each community. Descriptive statistics was used to analyse the result. A total of 54.2% of respondents had experienced disease outbreak from various culture systems. Majority of the farmers (87.2%) reported frequent outbreaks during the dry season. About 38% believed that majority of disease outbreaks occur during the juvenile stage. Commonly observed signs and symptoms of diseases were: grey colouring of bodies (46.7%), grainy white spot (59.0%), body wounds (87.2%), big head (25.6%), hole in the head (53.3%), haemorrhage (75.6%), stunted growth (80%), skeletal abnormalities (61.4%), fish scratching against hard object (34.9%), loss of appetite (76.6%), pop-eyes (22.7%), cloudy eyes (27.9%), emaciated appearance (48.9%), fish floats upside down (87.0%), tumours (30.2%), discolouration (59.1%), reddening of corners of the mouth and buccal cavity (25%). Most of the identified signs and symptoms were relevant to fish diseases. It was therefore apparent that diseases were constraint to development of sustainable productive aquaculture industry of Ibadan and Ikorodu. It was recommended that fish farmers be educated on biosecurity measures to prevent disease outbreaks.
In vitro fermentation technique to evaluate feeds of goats
A study was done to evaluate banana peels, maize bran, cotton seed cake, Leucaena leaves and elephant grass for energy as feeds for goats, using in-vitro fermentation technique. The in-vitro media solution was prepared and fermentation bottles were prepared using 12 culture screw bottles, with a valve and connected to a teflon tube to allow fermentation of gas within the bottle to flow out and be measured. Rumen fluid (10ml) was used to inoculate substrate in all fermentation bottles, each containing 0.5 g of each sample including the blank under a continuous carbon dioxide flux. The bottles were incubated in the water bath at a temperature of 380C for 168 hours. The gas volumes were measured by displacement of water in a 100 ml measuring cylinder suspended in a water trough. The cumulative gas production was determined by subtracting gas from the blank and the results plotted against time of incubation. The cumulative gas volume was associated with increase in bacterial activities in the rumen indicating the rate of degradation of the feeds. The result showed that maize bran, banana peels and elephant grass were primarily energy feeds in respect order of importance, while cotton seed cake and Leucaena leaves had the lowest levels and rate of gas production.
Growth Performance Of The Japanese Quail In A Semi Arid Area Of Nigeria.
A study was designed to determine the growth performance of Japanese quails in a semi arid area of Nigeria at the poultry unit of the University of Maiduguri Livestock Teaching and Research farm, Maiduguri, using 300 chicks. Mean live weights of the quails at 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 weeks were 16.08, 49.3, 82.26, 104.8, 133.93 and 140.74 g respectively. The corresponding weight gain were 10.07, 33.19, 7.25, 10.54 and 1.08 g while feed intakes were 5.02, 9.64, 20.11, 23.6, 32.64 and 34.58 g. Live weights, gain and feed intake of Japanese quails for the two sexes were similar except between weeks 6 and 10 when females were significantly (P.
Effects Of Supplementation Of The Natural Grazing With Roselle Seeds On Dry mater intake and performance of Desert Sheep Lambs In West Kordofan, Sudan.
A study was done to investigate the effects of supplementation of dry season grazing with Roselle seeds or groundnut seed cake on total voluntary dry matter intake, nutrient digestibility coefficients, total digestible nutrients, lambs live weight changes, body measurements and water consumption of Sudanese Desert sheep. The study was done at Abuzabad, El Nuhud District in West Kordofan State. Fifteen castrated lambs from Hamari sub-type of Sudan Desert sheep were sub-divided into three equal groups (5 lambs each). One group was offered natural grazing (NG), the second group was given natural grazing plus groundnut seed cake (NG+GNSC) and the third was fed on natural grazing plus Roselle seeds (NG+RS). Water was provided ad lib. The treatments lasted 77 days. Feed intake and water consumption were estimated daily while body measurements and body weight were taken weekly. Feed and faecal samples were taken for chemical analysis Statistical analysis indicated significant increase in total voluntary dry matter intake. It increased from 522g/day when lambs were fed on un-supplemented NG, to 810 and 845 g/day upon supplementation with GNSC and RS, respectively. The nutrients digestibility coefficients increased significantly (P<0.01) with supplementation, but no differences were observed in dry matter, organic matter and nitrogen free extract digestibility coefficients that could be attributed to type of supplement. Total digestible nutrients increased with supplementation (P<0.05) from 51 for NG to 56.9 and 61.5% upon supplementation with groundnut seed cake and Roselle seeds, respectively. Body weight increased from 20.10kg for lambs on NG to 24.50 and 25.70 kg upon supplementation with groundnut seed cake and Roselle seeds respectively. Feed conversion ratio improved from -22.32 for the animal groups on GN to 6.30 and 5.70 and daily growth rate from -27.50 when lambs left on GN only to 91.70 and 109.40 g/day upon supplementation with groundnut seed cake and Roselle seeds, respectively. Chest depth increased from 31.50 cm to 34.70 and 35.60 cm ; height at shoulder increased from 65.20cm to 68.00 cm and 69.00 cm ; and heart girth from 57.90cm to 64.70 cm and 66.50 cm upon supplementation with GNSC and Roselle seeds, respectively. No significant differences were observed in body length among the three groups. Water consumption increased from 1.126 to 1.476 L/day upon supplementation with GNSC and RS respectively. The study revealed that both supplements could improve nutritional status of the weaned lambs and that RS that are not usually used, could replace the cake in supplementation of lambs on NG during the dry season hence enabling producers and feedlot centers to reduce cost of production. Further studies are needed to evaluate effects of feeding lambs with Roselle seeds on meat quality.
Diagnostic Efficiency Of Meat Inspection Service To Detect Taenia Solium Cysticercostic Pork At Wambizi Pig Abattoir, Kampala, Uganda: Implications For Public Health.
The study was conducted at Wambizi abattoir by reviewing the meat inspection records retrospectively for the last five years 2010-2005. Wambizi pig abattoir2 receives pigs from all parts of Uganda some of which are endemic for porcine cysticercosis. The number of positive pigs diagnosed with certain conditions in each year were determined. The hygiene and incspection practices were noted. For a four month period, blood was harvested from the every fourth pig lined for slaughter. Serum was harvested from the clotted blood and cysticercosis antigen prevalence was detected in the serum by Ag-ELISA at using the HP10 Ag- ELISA system. It was found that less than ten cysticercotic pigs per year were detected. During the four month period of blood sampling no pig was diagnosed to be positive of cysticercosis on physical inspection. However, antigen sero-prevalence detected a prevalence of 42%. This implied that Wambizi pig abattoir was letting infected cysticercotic pork into the human food. It was therefore recommended that stringent supervision of the meat inspection to minimize the risk of tramsmission of cysticercosis to pork consumers. porcine Also sensitive method of diagnosis using the lamina flow ELISA be introduced for detecting cysticercosis infected pigs.
Cost Benefit Analysis Of Establishing Cervical Cancer Screening Services At Health Centres In The Districts Of Uganda Using Papanicolaou Method.
There is limited access to cervical cancer screening facilities at health centers in the districts of Uganda. The objective of the study was to perform Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) of screening women for cervical cancer at health centers in the districts of Uganda using Papanicolaou method. Pilot screening services were established at selected health centers in selected districts of Uganda using Papanicolaou method. CBA was performed under two scenarios. Scenario 1 was when there are no screening services at district health centers and all women were referred to Mulago hospital for screening. Scenario 2 was when there was screening services at health centers and only processed Papanicolaou smears which were sent to Pathology department for interpretation. The cost of screening for cervical cancer would be high both in scenario 1 and 2 in the first year. The screening costs would drastically reduce in scenario 2 in the second and subsequent years. However, screening women in eastern Uganda would be associated with high savings as compared with western region. Screening women at health centers in northern and central regions would be insensitive and associated with loses both in year one and subsequent years because of low number of women who would be screened. Papanicolaou screening was sensitive to the number of women screened and the distance from the screening center. Screening women at districts health centres distant from Mulago hospital would be the most cost effective intervention if many women are screened. Referring women to Mulago from health centers near Mulago hospital would be the cheapest option.
Aetiological spectrum of pancytopenia based on bone marrow morphological examination as seen in Mulago Hospital Uganda.
The study was done to determine the frequency of etiological spectrum of pancytopenia on the basis of morphologic bone marrow examination as seen in Mulago hospital Uganda. The study design was observational cross sectional study. It was done in the department of Haematology, Mulago Hospital and Makerere University College of Health Sciences (MakCHS) from June 2008 – January 2009. All patients on haematology ward and haematology clinic with pancytopenia from 12 years and above were consecutively recruited. Blood samples were taken from patients after informed consent. The patients below 18 years were consented thorough their parents/guardians. The blood samples were analysed for haemoglobin, total and differential leucocyte counts, platelet count and reticulocyte count. Besides, a peripheral blood smear and bone marrow aspiration/biopsy were also performed. Fifty patients were studied during this period and the most common cause of pancytopenia was megaloblastic anaemia (54%) followed by hyperspleenism (16%), aplastic anaemia(14%). The others included in order of importance were aplastic anaemia, normoblastic erythroid hyperplasia, myelodysplasia. acute leukaemia and multiple myeloma. Severe pancytopenia was mainly due to aplastic anaemia. In conclusion, megaloblastic anemia, hyperspleenism and aplastic anaemia were the most common causes of pancytopenia and aplastic anaemia was the most common cause of severe pancytopenia.